By Hanad Abdi - Reporter
MOGADISHU, 6 October 2026 — Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has criticised Somalia’s federal system, saying such systems have repeatedly failed to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people for unity and cohesion, according to Eritrea’s Ministry of Information on Tuesday.
Afwerki made the remarks in the Egyptian city of El Alamein, where he met Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and other issues of importance to Somalia and the region.
Isaias said political frameworks that deepen divisions within society by exploiting socio-economic, religious and ethnic differences could lead to recurring crises and create opportunities for foreign intervention.
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The Eritrean president said such systems should be replaced with governance structures based on citizenship, which he said could help strengthen national unity and social cohesion.
The two presidents also discussed the importance of consolidating a political environment that rejects external agendas and interference, in order to safeguard Somalia’s territorial integrity, stability and peace.
President Hassan Sheikh, for his part, thanked Isaias Afwerki and the Eritrean people for their position and support for the Somali government and people.